Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that’s packed with flavor, look no further than Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole! This recipe combines two classics into one irresistible meal: tender meatloaf with a zesty twist and creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes all baked together to create the ultimate comfort food experience. The smoky flavors from the meatloaf blend perfectly with the creamy potatoes, while the tangy barbecue sauce adds a delicious punch. It’s the kind of dish that’ll warm you up from the inside out and leave you asking for seconds. Trust me, you’re going to want to make this one again and again!

Why You’ll Love Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole

Comfort in Every Bite: With tender meatloaf and creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is a cozy, filling meal that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. It’s comfort food at its best!

Packed with Flavor: The combination of savory meatloaf with smoky, tangy barbecue sauce and cheesy mashed potatoes creates an unforgettable flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for more.

Easy to Make: Everything is layered in one casserole dish, which means fewer dishes to clean. It’s the perfect “set it and forget it” recipe that will fill your home with mouthwatering aromas.

Family-Friendly: The whole family will love this dish—kids will especially love the cheesy mashed potatoes and tender meatloaf, while adults will appreciate the rich flavors and heartiness of this meal.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef – The base of your meatloaf; lean beef works great for a juicy texture.
• 1 egg – Helps bind everything together and keeps the meatloaf tender.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs – For added texture and to absorb the juices, keeping the meatloaf moist.
• ¼ cup milk – Adds moisture to the meatloaf mixture.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped – Brings sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic adds that savory punch.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – A must for that umami depth in the meatloaf.
• 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce – For a smoky, tangy flavor that’ll infuse the meatloaf.
• 1 teaspoon salt – To season the meat and bring out the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper – A little kick of heat for balance.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – For a subtle smokiness that complements the barbecue sauce.

For the Potato Casserole:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced – These potatoes provide the perfect texture for a creamy and satisfying casserole.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds richness and creaminess to the mashed potatoes.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For a cheesy, melty topping that’s impossible to resist.
• ¼ cup butter – Adds that buttery richness we all love.
• ¼ cup milk – To help achieve the perfect creamy texture.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To season the mashed potatoes to perfection.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For extra savory flavor.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Begin by peeling and dicing the potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes for 10-15 minutes or until fork-tender.

2. Mash the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Set aside.

3. Make the Meatloaf:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, barbecue sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

4. Form the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meatloaf mixture into a baking dish, shaping it into a loaf. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just make sure it’s evenly shaped so it cooks properly.

5. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf, covering it completely. Use a spatula to smooth the potatoes into an even layer.

6. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the potatoes are golden and bubbly. If you like a crispy top, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice into it, and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy the rich, smoky, and creamy goodness in every bite!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 450
Total Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 650mg
Total Carbohydrates: 34g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 20g
Vitamin A: 10%
Vitamin C: 25%
Calcium: 15%
Iron: 15%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

How to Serve Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole

• With a Side Salad: Pair this rich casserole with a crisp green salad to balance out the richness of the dish. A light vinaigrette works wonderfully to cut through the creaminess.
• Extra Barbecue Sauce: Serve with a side of extra barbecue sauce for dipping. It adds an extra layer of flavor that’s hard to resist!
• Steamed Veggies: Add a serving of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a healthy touch and extra color on the plate.

Additional Tips

Customize the Meatloaf: Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, jalapeños, or even grated carrots to the meatloaf for extra flavor and texture.

Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

Freezer-Friendly: You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Just assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze. When ready to eat, bake from frozen for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until fully heated through.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A1: Yes, ground turkey works as a leaner alternative to beef. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste since turkey is milder than beef.

Q2: Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance and refrigerate them. Just make sure to warm them up before spreading them over the meatloaf.

Q3: How can I make this dish spicier?
A3: Add some chopped jalapeños to the meatloaf or a dash of hot sauce to the mashed potatoes for an extra kick.

Q4: Can I use a different type of cheese in the mashed potatoes?
A4: Of course! Try using mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

Q5: How do I know when the meatloaf is cooked through?
A5: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked.

Q6: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A6: Yes! You can substitute the meatloaf with a plant-based ground meat or lentils, and adjust the seasonings accordingly.

Q7: Can I freeze the individual components separately?
A7: Yes, you can freeze both the meatloaf and mashed potatoes separately, then assemble and bake when you’re ready to enjoy.

Q8: Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
A8: While homemade mashed potatoes are preferred for their flavor and texture, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch for a quicker version.

Q9: Can I add extra veggies to the casserole?
A9: Absolutely! You can stir in cooked vegetables like corn, peas, or bell peppers into the mashed potatoes or the meatloaf mixture for added texture and flavor.

Q10: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A10: Yes, you can make this in a slow cooker! Cook the meatloaf mixture on low for 4-6 hours, then top with the mashed potatoes and cook for an additional 30-45 minutes until heated through.

Conclusion

Cowboy Meatloaf & Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, flavorful, and sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is bound to be a hit! With a smoky, tangy meatloaf and creamy mashed potatoes all baked together in one dish, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. So gather your ingredients, get ready to dig in, and enjoy this cozy, crowd-pleasing recipe!

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